Ghana’s Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO) has been awarded a £1 million prize to expand its transformative environmental initiatives, marking a major milestone in grassroots climate action.

The announcement, which coincided with this year’s Workers’ Day celebrations, is being hailed as a powerful endorsement of community-led solutions in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

The prize will enable GAYO to accelerate and scale its impact across Ghana and beyond.

Desmond Alugnoa, Co-Founder of GAYO, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, calling it a validation of the organisation’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

“This award is a testament to the strength of community-driven innovation,” Alugnoa said.

“It affirms our belief that those most affected by climate change must be at the centre of creating solutions.”

He also acknowledged the challenges the organisation continues to face, including limited resources and the need for greater policy support.

Looking ahead, he shared GAYO’s vision to expand its programmes, foster stronger partnerships, and inspire a new generation of environmental leaders across Africa.